Alumni Spotlight: Maxine Thomas, Bachelor of Science in Social Work '05

Alison Juram D'Addieco -
June 27, 2013

Bachelor
of Science in Social Work, 2005

“Carlow
is small, hands-on, and individualized. It’s a good experience. You’ll grow as
a person. It will help your family, your kids, and give you all something to
look forward to.”— Maxine Thomas

Maxine Thomas is used to getting up early. For years, she
drove a McKeesport Area School District bus.

But Maxine decided she wanted something more. So she turned
to Carlow.

She knew she wanted to work with people, and she had a few
community college credits under her belt. But at age 44 with three children to
raise, she knew it wouldn’t be easy.

“I completed my
morning run at 9 a.m.,” she says, “took courses in between, and took courses
again at night. It was the best decision I ever made. It changed my life.”

It took Maxine just four years to earn her Bachelor of
Science degree in Social Work. She later went on to receive a master’s degree
from Pitt.

Today, Maxine works with elderly dementia patients at the
John J. Kane Regional Center–Glen Hazel, where she enjoys the opportunity to
build relationships with and advocate for residents and their families. She is
also on the advisory board for Carlow’s School of Social Work and on the school
board for the Duquesne City School District.

She attributes much of her success to the education she
received at Carlow.

“Writing
skills, communication skills—all the skills you need to be a social worker,
you’ll get it all at Carlow,” she says.